When choosing a bike for a beginning or new rider, there are many things to consider to maximize success. Listed below are some things to consider when choosing a bike as well as some simple modifications that may be made to the bike to support riders who may find aspects of bike riding tricky.
Hand-brakes – typically only active on the rear tire to offer a safer stop for the bike when braking
Handle bars – that are adjusted towards the rider to support sitting in an upright and tall position
Back support – supports rider to sit back in the seat and gives them something to stabilize against while pedaling
Banana seat – supports rider to sit back in the seat and pedal and push from their core as well as the legs
Wheel size – choose wheel size where rider is perched on the seat and can comfortably place balls of feet on the ground or feet flat on the ground
Oversized extra wheels – supports rider to stay balanced
Single speed bike with coaster brakes – ease of riding and simple to drive
Toe clips/Pedal helpers – to support the foot in staying on the pedals and prevent foot from slipping off the pedals
Low-slung frame – for ease of getting on and off the bike
Contact a recreation therapist for more information: tr [at] tvcc.on.ca (tr[at]tvcc[dot]on[dot]ca) or sign up for a Let's Talk Recreation! consultation.
